Demba Ba-to-Chelsea a done deal, says Pardew

January 03, 2013

Ba, 27, was given permission to speak to Chelsea after the Blues triggered the release clause in his contract.

Speaking after Wednesday's 2-1 defeat by Everton, Pardew told BBC Sport: "I don't think he will be coming back; I think the deal will get done.

"We can move on - we're a massive club here. This club is bigger than any player, for sure."

It is believed that Ba's contract contains a clause which allows him to speak to other clubs in the event of a £7m bid.

The Senegal international, who joined Newcastle from West Ham in June 2011, has 13 Premier League goals this season, and was withdrawn from the squad to face Everton on Wednesday evening to talk to Chelsea.